ABUJA — The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to adopt firm diplomatic measures against South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks, alleged extrajudicial killings, and what lawmakers described as the systematic persecution of Nigerians and other African nationals living in the country.
The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, who represents Kanke/Kanam/Pankshin Federal Constituency of Plateau State. The motion received unanimous support during plenary on Thursday, presided over by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Benjamin Kalu.
Presenting the motion, Gagdi expressed deep concern over the resurgence of xenophobic violence in South Africa, saying recent incidents have claimed the lives of Nigerians and other African nationals, while further straining diplomatic relations between the two countries.
According to him, credible reports indicate that citizens of Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, and Malawi have come under renewed attacks, with many allegedly targeted because of their nationality.
The lawmaker specifically cited the killing of two Nigerians in separate incidents, alleging that one died while in police custody, while another was murdered outside his business premises.
He described the latest wave of attacks as unacceptable and inconsistent with the long-standing historical relationship between Nigeria and South Africa, particularly Nigeria’s immense contributions to the struggle against apartheid and the liberation of South Africa.
Gagdi said it was profoundly disturbing that Nigerians, whose country played a leading role in supporting South Africa’s liberation, were now facing persistent violence, discrimination, and intimidation.
He warned that the recurring attacks not only threaten the safety and welfare of Nigerians abroad but also undermine the ideals of pan-African unity, regional cooperation, and the free movement of people across the continent.
The lawmaker urged the Federal Government to take stronger diplomatic steps to protect the lives and interests of Nigerians living in South Africa and to ensure that those responsible for the attacks are brought to justice.
Several lawmakers who contributed to the debate supported the motion and called for decisive action.
Hon. Billy Osawaru, Hon. Moshood Akiolu, Hon. Ghali Tijjani, and Hon. Adebayo Adepoju condemned the recurring violence against foreign nationals, insisting that Nigeria could no longer remain silent while its citizens continued to face attacks in South Africa.
The lawmakers advocated sustained diplomatic engagement with the South African government, legal redress for victims and their families, and improved support for Nigerians affected by the attacks.
They also urged the Federal Government to summon South Africa’s High Commissioner to Nigeria to provide explanations on the measures being taken by Pretoria to guarantee the safety and security of Nigerians residing in the country.
Following deliberations, the House unanimously adopted the motion and passed a series of resolutions aimed at addressing the situation.
The House urged the Federal Government to immediately summon the South African envoy in Abuja to explain the South African government's position on the protection of Nigerians and other foreign nationals.
Lawmakers also called for an independent international investigation into the killings of Nigerians and other African migrants in South Africa, while urging Nigeria to engage the African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN) to ensure accountability and strengthen the protection of migrants across the continent.
In addition, the House called on the Federal Government to review Nigeria’s bilateral relations with South Africa, including the possibility of suspending aspects of diplomatic and economic cooperation until concrete measures are implemented to curb xenophobic attacks and guarantee the safety of foreign nationals.
The lawmakers further urged the government to strengthen consular services for Nigerians in South Africa, provide adequate legal and humanitarian assistance for victims, and establish reintegration programmes for citizens who choose to return home.
As part of its legislative response, the House resolved to constitute an ad hoc committee to engage with South Africa’s Parliament, government, and relevant regional institutions on practical measures to prevent future attacks and improve the protection of African migrants.
The committee is expected to submit its report and recommendations within 21 days.
Xenophobic violence has remained a recurring source of diplomatic tension between Nigeria and South Africa over the years. Major outbreaks recorded in 2008, 2015, and 2019 resulted in numerous deaths, widespread destruction of businesses owned by foreign nationals, and strained relations between Africa’s two largest economies.
The latest resolution by the House of Representatives signals renewed pressure on the Federal Government to adopt a more robust diplomatic response while pursuing regional and international efforts to ensure justice for victims and prevent further attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa.
